Enter UPC-A Code (11 digits)
Enter 11 digits and we'll automatically calculate the check digit to create your complete 12-digit UPC-A barcode.
11 base digits + 1 check digit = 12-digit UPC-A
Product Information (Optional)
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UPC-A Barcode Preview
Enter 11 digits to generate UPC-A barcode
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Understanding UPC-A Barcodes
UPC-A (Universal Product Code - Version A) is the most common barcode format used in retail across the United States and Canada. Every product sold in stores has a unique 12-digit UPC-A code.
UPC-A Structure
A UPC-A barcode consists of 12 digits broken down as follows:
- Number System Digit (1 digit): Identifies the type of product
- 0-1: Regular UPC codes
- 2: Random weight items (produce, meat)
- 3: Pharmaceuticals
- 4: In-store marking for loyalty cards
- 5: Coupons
- 6-9: Regular UPC codes
- Manufacturer Code (5 digits): Unique identifier assigned by GS1 to the manufacturer
- Product Code (5 digits): Assigned by the manufacturer to identify specific products
- Check Digit (1 digit): Calculated using a special algorithm to validate the barcode
How the Check Digit is Calculated
The check digit ensures barcode accuracy and is calculated using these steps:
- Add the digits in odd positions (1st, 3rd, 5th, etc.) and multiply by 3
- Add the digits in even positions (2nd, 4th, 6th, etc.)
- Sum the results from steps 1 and 2
- Subtract from the next highest multiple of 10
Example: For code 12345678901
Step 1: (1+3+5+7+9+1) × 3 = 26 × 3 = 78
Step 2: 2+4+6+8+0 = 20
Step 3: 78 + 20 = 98
Step 4: 100 - 98 = 2 (check digit)
How to Get a UPC Code for Your Product
- Join GS1: Visit gs1.org and purchase a company prefix
- Assign Product Numbers: Use your prefix to create unique codes for each product
- Generate Barcodes: Use this tool to create printable barcodes
- Add to Packaging: Place barcodes on product packaging for retail scanning
Important: GS1 Company Prefix
To legally sell products in retail stores, you need an official GS1 Company Prefix. While this tool generates valid barcode images, you must purchase legitimate UPC codes from GS1 for commercial use. Annual fees range from $250 to $10,000+ depending on the number of products you need to code.
Best Practices for UPC Barcodes
- Size Requirements: Minimum width of 1.469 inches (37.29mm), minimum height of 1.02 inches (25.93mm)
- Quiet Zones: Leave at least 0.25 inches of white space on both sides
- Print Quality: Use 300 DPI or higher for professional printing
- Color: Black bars on white background provide best scanning results
- Placement: Place on flat surface, avoid curved or textured areas
- Testing: Always test with multiple scanners before mass production
- Magnification: Can be printed 80% to 200% of standard size if needed
Common UPC-A Uses
- Retail Products: Consumer goods sold in stores
- E-commerce: Online product listings and inventory management
- Point of Sale: Fast checkout at cash registers
- Inventory Tracking: Warehouse and stock management
- Supply Chain: Product tracking from manufacturer to consumer
- Price Lookup: Automated pricing systems
UPC-A vs Other Barcode Formats
- UPC-A vs EAN-13: UPC-A is used in US/Canada, EAN-13 is the international equivalent
- UPC-A vs UPC-E: UPC-E is a compressed version for small packages
- UPC-A vs CODE128: CODE128 is more versatile but not standard for retail POS
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make up my own UPC code?
Technically yes for testing purposes, but for commercial retail use, you must purchase legitimate codes from GS1. Retailers verify UPC codes in their databases and won't accept unregistered codes.
How much do UPC codes cost?
Initial GS1 membership starts at $250 per year for 10 products. Larger inventories require higher-tier memberships ranging up to $10,000+ annually.
Can I reuse UPC codes?
No. Each product variation (size, color, flavor) needs its own unique UPC code.
What file format should I use for printing?
SVG format is best for professional printing as it scales without quality loss. PNG works well for standard office printers at 300 DPI or higher.
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